Spokane County Master Gardeners in a parade.

Become a WSU Extension Master Gardener

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Join us!

Master Gardeners working at a plant sale.

Do you want to learn more about gardening, meet new people and make a difference in the community? The WSU Extension Master Gardener Program may be just right for you. You will learn science-based knowledge to tackle the yard and garden problems that matter to you and to, your friends, neighbors and community.

Become a Master Gardener

If you’ve always wanted to be a Master Gardener, now is your chance! Sign up for the 2026 season!

WSU Extension Master Gardener Volunteer

 

  • Complete application.
  • Complete background check.
  • Sign volunteer commitment.
  • Complete everything in the Washington Gardener track.
  • Attend county-based in-person labs.
  • Agree to volunteer at least 40 hours in the first year to earn WSU Extension Master Gardener certification. Agree to volunteer at least 40 hours per year and earn at least 10 hours of continuing education per year to maintain certification.

Apply

  • The application period for the Extension Master Gardener Program for class of 2026 is now closed for the season. Check back in June of 2026 to become part of the class of 2027!

Frequently asked questions:

Applicants to the WSU Extension Spokane County Master Gardener Program must meet the following criteria:

  1. Be at least 18 years of age.
  2. Possess a strong volunteer ethic and an interest in gardening (prior gardening experience is desirable but not required).
  3. Pass a Federal Background Check
  4. Complete Child Protection Training.
  5. Commit to participating in the WSU Extension Master Gardener Basic Training course
    1. In-person training consisting of lecture, hands-on labs, and volunteer training totaling 60 hours.
    2. Online training, including chapter reading; completing the final exam with a minimum score of 80% and achieving an overall average score of at least 80% on all quizzes.
  6. Sign a Pest Management Recommendation Agreement and a Code of Conduct Agreement.
  7. Agree to use technology such as email, learning platforms, and the volunteer database.
  8. Be available to perform volunteer work as needed by the WSU Extension Spokane County Master Gardener Program. Commit to donating:
    1. a minimum of 20 volunteer hours each year in the WSU Plant Clinic
    2. a minimum of 15 volunteer hours for events, workshops, or youth education
    3. a minimum of 5 volunteer hours in Demonstration Gardens
  9. Document volunteer hours each month using our electronic database, GivePulse.
  10. Automatic recertification each year is not guaranteed
    1. annual commitment to the required volunteer hours listed above
    2. annual commitment to a minimum of 10 WSU Extension Master Gardener approved continuing education hours
    3. then each Certified volunteer completes the Annual Certification Application. There is no fee associated with re-applying.

A:

  • $275 WSU Extension Master Gardener Volunteer: Intern Training. Payment will be collected via an online payment site following acceptance by your local county.
  • The Pacific Northwest Gardener’s Handbook: Growing for the Future can be downloaded upon receipt of payment.
  • $125 WSU Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Scholarship recipient: Intern training. Payment will be collected via an online payment site following acceptance by your local county and scholarship approval.

A.

Course Format Asynchronous

October – February, Online training can be accessed and completed from any computer with a high-speed internet connection.  Trainees will be expected to complete all training modules, the quizzes and final exam. It is necessary to have basic computer skills and the ability to regularly communicate by email.

January – April, A series of classroom sessions will provide additional instruction, topic discussions, and various hands-on activities.  Trainees will be expected to attend scheduled onsite classes as well as an orientation session before working their first volunteer hours.

The integration of various topics offers a comprehensive education, encompassing both the science and art of gardening. Additionally, it equips participants with the necessary skills to effectively disseminate this knowledge within the community. This approach underscores the program’s dedication to science-based education and sustainable practices. As a result, graduates of the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program possess a solid horticultural foundation and the confidence to engage in community education and outreach.

A: Upon completing their training, trainees transition into interns. As interns, they volunteer alongside certified WSU Extension Master Gardeners, enhancing their knowledge and skills while gaining comfort in community education and program participation. To earn WSU Extension Master Gardener certification, intern volunteers must contribute a minimum of 40 hours. 

A: After achieving certification as a WSU Extension Master Gardener, you commit to volunteering for a minimum of 20 hours annually, along with 20 hours volunteering in the plant clinic and completing at least 10 of ongoing education. At the end of each year, if you’ve met these requirements, your continued interest in the program is confirmed by submitting a straightforward re-application form. There is no fee associated with annual re-application

Two master gardeners moving compost.

If you’re passionate about gardening and want to make a positive impact, participating in the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program can be a fulfilling and educational experience. It’s an excellent opportunity to deepen your knowledge, connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts, and give back by sharing your expertise with others.
Master Gardener spirit mark

The passion and dedication demonstrated by WSU Extension Master Gardeners underscores the positive impact that programs like these can have on individuals and communities. The reasons they’ve provided for their involvement highlight the multifaceted benefits of participating in such a program:

Being a WSU Extension Master Gardener offers a continuous learning experience. Participants have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of horticultural science and gardening practices, staying up-to-date on the latest research and techniques.

The sense of community and the opportunity to learn from fellow WSU Extension Master Gardeners contributes to a supportive and enriching environment. Sharing experiences and knowledge among members fosters continuous growth and improvement.

The core aspect of the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program is community service. Participants take pride in using their expertise to benefit their local communities by offering guidance, workshops, and assistance to fellow community members.

WSU Extension Master Gardeners often earn respect and recognition from their communities for their valuable contributions. This acknowledgment can be a source of pride and satisfaction, reinforcing the importance of the work they do.

Involvement in the WSU Extension Master Gardener Program provides a sense of purpose. Participants find fulfillment in contributing to a greater cause, knowing that their efforts positively impact the environment and the well-being of the community.